The use of urinary catheters can cause inflammation of the foreskin.
Foreskin swelling can be a symptom of phimosis, paraphimosis, or balanitis. There are several factors that can cause or contribute to foreskin inflammation, including infection, poor hygiene, contact dermatitis, and sexual activity. Foreskin swelling does not always require treatment, but in some cases it can be a true medical emergency. Foreskin edema affects only uncircumcised men and boys.
Balanitis is an irritation of the foreskin that can cause inflammation of the foreskin.
One of the most common types of inflammation of the foreskin is phimosis, which occurs most often in infants and children. In phimosis, the foreskin swells so much that it cannot be retracted over the head of the penis or the glans. Poor hygiene and infection, including candidiasis, are among the main causes of phimosis, especially in infants and children. Phimosis can also occur after intercourse or masturbation. Phimosis is not usually considered a medical emergency, but it can cause problems with urination. Phimosis sometimes goes away on its own, but if symptoms don’t resolve within 12 to 24 hours, medical treatment is usually recommended.
Phimosis is the most common type of foreskin edema, which occurs when the foreskin is so swollen that it cannot be retracted over the glans.
Paraphimosis is considered a much more serious condition, and immediate medical treatment is usually recommended for this problem. Paraphimosis occurs when the foreskin is stuck in a retracted position and cannot be pulled down over the glans. Paraphimosis is generally considered a medical emergency, as the retracted and swollen foreskin can cut off the blood supply to the glans. Without treatment, paraphimosis can cause gangrene of the penis, which may require amputation. Paraphimosis most often occurs after intercourse, masturbation, or an erection. It can also occur due to poorly performed circumcision, injury to the foreskin or glans, or the use of urinary catheters.
Foreskin swelling can be caused by an allergic reaction to condoms.
Balanitis is an irritation of the foreskin that can cause inflammation of the foreskin. Poor hygiene can contribute to balanitis, as it can allow bacteria to develop under the foreskin. Fungal infections and sexually transmitted infections can cause balanitis, as can allergic reactions to soaps, spermicides, and fragrances. Dermatitis can also cause balanitis as it can irritate the foreskin. Other symptoms, in addition to swelling of the foreskin, often accompany balanitis, such as itching, urethral discharge, or a skin rash.
